Levitra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence). It works by blocking the breakdown of a chemical called cGMP in the body. Sexual stimulation is still needed to produce an erection.
The recommended starting dose is 10 milligrams taken once per day about 60 minutes before sexual activity. Your doctor may increase your dose to 20 milligrams based on your response and medical history.
How to use
Levitra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is an inability to get and keep a firm erection during sexual activity. Levitra works by relaxing the blood vessels in your penis, which results in an erection that lasts longer.
The medication is taken orally and usually takes less than an hour to begin working. It is best to take it about 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. Levitra doesn't act as an aphrodisiac and won't increase sexual desire. The effects only occur when you are sexually aroused.
Talk to your doctor about the use of this medication if you have a history of priapism, liver problems, kidney disease, or other medical conditions. It is also important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications, including nonprescription drugs, vitamins and herbal supplements. Some medicines interact with Levitra, especially nitrates and alpha-blockers.
This medication should never be taken by a woman or a man under the age of 18. It is not recommended for use by people with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder.
Dosage
Most men who take Levitra start on 10mg and may increase to 20mg if the lower dose doesn't offer them results. Men with certain health conditions, such as low blood pressure, Peyronie's disease (a deformity of the penis), or heart disease are advised to take a lower starting dose.
Vardenafil improves erections by blocking an enzyme, PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5), that breaks down cGMP in the body. This allows cGMP to build up and flow into the blood vessels in the penis, improving blood flow to the area.
Levitra is typically taken on an as-needed basis, about 60 minutes before sexual activity. However, it is recommended that you call your doctor right away if you experience painful or prolonged erections, vision changes, and/or numbness or tingling of the chest, arms, hands, neck, or jaw -- this is a sign of a serious side effect called priapism and must be treated immediately. You should also call your doctor if you have any other side effects that are not listed in the drug information.
Side effects
The side effects of Levitra can vary from person to person. Some people may experience none of them at all while others will have more severe reactions. Always check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your side effects.
Levitra works by blocking the phosphodiesterase enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). When you are sexually stimulated, cGMP allows muscles in the spongy tissue of your penis to relax. This lets blood flow more easily into the penis, producing an erection. Levitra prevents cGMP from breaking down so it can last longer, but sexual stimulation is still needed for an erection.
This medication can interact with nitrate medications for chest pain or heart problems, alpha-blockers such as atenolol and doxazosin, certain antidepressants including amitriptyline and tamsulosin, the antibiotics diclofenac and isoniazid, riociguat and other medicines that affect guanylate cyclase. It should also not be taken with grapefruit juice. These interactions can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
Precautions
Taking Levitra exactly as prescribed is crucial for reducing side effects. Patients should not take more than one dose per day. Also, they should avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking vardenafil as it makes it less effective. They should also be sure to tell their doctors about any medications, supplements or teas they are using. These may increase the chances of negative side effects.
Men should contact their doctor immediately if they experience pain or a ringing in the ears when taking vardenafil. These are signs of priapism, which is a serious side effect. They should also seek medical attention if they experience sudden vision loss. This could be a sign of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.
Levitra is not safe to take if you have certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure or heart problems. It can also interact with certain medications, such as nitrates for chest pain and alpha blockers like doxazocin (Riociguat). Be sure to let your clinician know about any other medical conditions you have or medications you are on.